Perpetrators
At Andreozzi + Foote, we understand that parents trust summer camps to protect and nurture their children. When a child is harmed by sexual abuse or assault, that trust is shattered. Our dedicated legal team is committed to supporting families affected by such tragedies and holding accountable those who have failed in their duty of care.
Our Commitment to Protecting Children
With a proven track record of helping children and families recover from the trauma of sexual abuse, we have held various institutions accountable, including public, private, and schools, as well as youth organizations and churches. Collaborating closely with support networks, therapists, and advocates, we ensure survivors receive comprehensive care to heal from the long-term effects of childhood sexual abuse.
Our trauma-informed approach empowers survivors, giving them a voice and helping them reclaim their sense of security and trust. If your child has been a victim of sexual assault at a summer camp, we urge you to contact us at 1-(866) 311-8640 for a free and confidential consultation.
Are Summer Camps Safe?
While most summer camps prioritize camper safety, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential risks:
- Large groups of children and teenagers in unfamiliar surroundings can lead to vulnerability.
- Sexual assault may occur between unsupervised children, teen counselors and children, young adult counselors, or camp management and participants.
- Factors like inadequate supervision, lack of proper policies, insufficient staff background checks, and failure to address potential dangers can increase the risk of sexual assault.
Although incidents of sexual assault in summer camps are rare, even a single instance is too many. An experienced child sexual abuse lawyer can help your family process what has happened and take steps toward healing. Contact us at 1-(866) 311-8640 to discuss how legal action can improve your future.
Understanding the Dangers of Summer Camp Sexual Assault
Statistics from CBS News, 2018, highlight the disturbing reality of sexual abuse in summer camps:
- Hundreds of reports indicate sexual abuse has occurred at children’s camps across the United States.
- Over 500 victims have allegedly been sexually abused at camps in the past 55 years.
- Survivor advocates suggest the actual number of abuse cases is likely much higher due to underreporting.
USA Today published survivors’ stories of sexual abuse at summer camps and the long-term impacts.
The Long-Term Impact of Childhood Sexual Assault
The effects of childhood sexual abuse can include:
- Depression, guilt, and shame
- Self-blame
- Eating Disorders
- Suicidal Ideation
- Substance Use and Alcohol Disorders
- Sleep problems and anxiety
- Dissociative patterns, repression, and denial
- Later-in-life sexual and relationship issues
To address these conditions, families may require funds for specialized counseling, medical therapy, and other forms of enrichment. A summer camp sexual assault lawsuit can help secure the necessary financial support for your child’s recovery.
Responsibilities of Summer and Sleepaway Camps
Summer and sleepaway camps must implement comprehensive policies to prevent and respond to sexual assault, including:
- Thorough staff training on child protection and abuse prevention
- Background checks for all employees and volunteers
- Clear mandatory reporting mechanisms for campers and staff
These measures, along with robust supervision practices, significantly reduce the risk of sexual assault, creating a safer environment for campers. Failure to implement these safety measures can be seen as a breach of duty and a liability under the law.
Legal Support for Summer Camp Sexual Assault Victims
While criminal prosecution addresses the crime of sexual contact with a minor, it may not fully ensure justice for your family or protect other children. Civil lawsuits can provide additional relief and incentivize camps to improve safeguards.
By filing a child sexual abuse lawsuit, you can secure funding for therapeutic help and drive systemic changes to prevent future incidents. This personal injury lawsuit helps you regain control and ensures your child’s needs and losses are fully considered in court.
Contact the compassionate team at Andreozzi + Foote for a free, confidential consultation. We are here to listen, evaluate your options, and help you choose the best path forward for your family. Reach us online or by phone at 1-(866) 311-8640. Together, we can work towards a safer future for all children.
